COOPERS SCHOOL. Curriculum Information CONTENTS. Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Pride, Honesty, Achievement

Transcription

1 COOPERS SCHOOL Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Pride, Honesty, Achievement Curriculum Information CONTENTS

2 Introduction to Coopers School Curriculum Information Faculty Information: English & Media Studies Mathematics Science Technology Art Drama Music Humanities Social Science Physical Education Computer Science / ICT Modern Foreign Languages Personal Development Academically Able Enrichment Inclusion

3 Curriculum Coopers provides a curriculum for all our students from Year 7 through to Year 13 and beyond. The purpose of our curriculum is to enable each student to be a successful learner, a confident individual, a responsible citizen and an effective contributor. The ethos of Coopers expects that all students will take a full and active part in all areas of the curriculum and school life. Our curriculum is designed to instil a love of learning and a thirst for knowledge with a focus on stimulating intellectual curiosity and helping students to develop a sense of awe and wonder through discovery and exploration. We are forward thinking at Coopers and as a result, constantly review our curriculum offer to not only meet the needs of all our students but to keep abreast of modern developments. Our curriculum is innovative and reflects the changing nature of the work place as well as national expectations. We firmly believe that if a student has an exciting curriculum offer, differentiated according to their needs, every child will have a strong platform to succeed. Our core purpose is to provide effective teaching and to inspire lasting learning. Students with particular aptitudes, abilities and needs are identified from Year 7 onwards. Provision to support more able and less able students is organised across the school. Students will spend much more time than in most other local schools on English, mathematics and science. Our extended school day provides time for a broad range of other subjects to ensure we are catering for every individual interest.

4 Curriculum Key Stage 3 Key Stage 3 covers the first 2 years of secondary education Years 7 & 8 (students aged 11 to 13). Students in these years study:- English, Mathematics, Science, Technology, ICT, Art French, Spanish, Music, Drama, Physical Education, PSHE, History, Geography, Religious Education and Citizenship At the end of the Key Stage, students are assessed in the subjects they study and their levels are reported to you. There is also a comprehensive Learning to Learn Programme delivered through the Personal Development sessions. Key Stage 4 Key Stage 4 covers Years 9, 10 & 11 (students aged 13 to 16) and at this stage the study requirements are more flexible and some choice of subjects is possible. Most students take 9 or 10 GCSE s but we also offer other qualifications such as BTEC. Subjects include: Art History Business Studies Law Citizenship Mathematics Drama Media Studies Electronics Music Engineering PE English (Language and Literature) Performing Arts French RE Food Science (Double or Triple Award) Geography Spanish Graphics Sport Key Stage 5 (Sixth Form) In Key Stage 5 (years 12 and 13) students are able to study Level 3 BTEC, AS and A2 level courses over two years. Students have a wide range of choices including: Art English IT Photography Biology Further Mathematics Law Physics Business Studies Geography Mathematics Psychology Chemistry Government & Politics Media Sociology Computer Science Graphics Music Systems and Control Economics History PE Textiles Please see our website for a complete list of courses on offer for Extra Curricular Activities A wide range of additional activities is offered after School and at weekends. See section on Enrichment.

5 English Your questions answered: What sort of work atmosphere is there in a typical English classroom? It s always busy and purposeful. A whole gamut of teaching methods is in use in the English classroom, ranging from didactic, teacher-led lessons to role- play, debating, Socratic discussion, the use of interactive whiteboards and the teaching of literature through a variety of teaching and learning styles. Students will study the three components of English: speaking and listening, reading and writing. Students are encouraged to look at the standards they have achieved and see where they need to go in terms of progress. All lessons are directed at a particular Assessment Focus and teachers will guide students in how they need to work and what they need to do to make progress. Our standards are high - we expect the best - and students are given the confidence to succeed in all aspects of English. What do children do for Speaking and Listening? We encourage students to speak up and express ideas and opinions, with the emphasis on developing reasoned and researched statements, and in furthering their thinking through talk. The sorts of talk that go on include: giving prepared presentations using ICT, taking part in debates, role-play activities and simulations. Effective oral communication is a vital component of English and is an essential skill that students will need once they enter the world of work. We have taken students to debating competitions where they are consistently highly placed. We feel that this ability to communicate effectively is very important for developing students into mature, quick-thinking and sensitive young adults. Do you correct spelling and grammar errors? Yes. Clear, correct writing is the basis of success in English, an integral part of the curriculum at Key Stages 3, and has separate (and significant) marks awarded at KS4. Sometimes a section of the student s writing will be the focus for correction and across the school five key areas of accuracy are always corrected. Students are expected to be equipped with a dictionary and spelling/vocabulary notebook for corrections and vocabulary extension work. We also have Words of the Week which are promoted and embedded in all subjects across the school. One PD session a week is given to developing literacy skills which are transferable to all subjects. We have a strong focus on spelling and run a successful Spelling Bee competition every year to make spellings both fun and challenging!

6 My child doesn t read at home. How do you encourage reading at Coopers? Independent reading is vital to success, not only in English but in every area of the curriculum and is a skill which students will need in their future lives. Research shows that this is the single most important skill which affects success. The School Library facility allows all Year 7 and 8 students to spend time during English lessons and PD to enjoy the range of books and therefore improve their reading. The School Library is also open in the mornings before school, from 7.45 a.m., and after school until 4.00 p.m. Students can take full advantage of this to read independently. A full reading list is available on the school website and is updated regularly with suggestions for new titles. Some Year 7 and 8 students also work on the Accelerated Reader program which is an online quiz program that has been acclaimed by schools nationally. We are also revitalising a Sixth Form Reading Partner programme where Year 12 and 13 students are paired up with Year 7 students to share reading and help students gain confidence and stretch their appreciation of literature. We have authors and poets visiting and will be running a Literacy Week in the spring term. English lessons for Years 7-9 ensure students read a wide variety of types of stories and plays as well as poetry and non-fiction. Some of the texts will be modern, some pre-20th century and some reflecting diverse cultures and traditions. We are particularly successful at enabling children to see that they can like reading and that it does not have to be a difficult and boring past time. How is technology used in English? All English classrooms are equipped with a SMARTboard which teachers use during lessons. We were lucky enough to have a full rebuild in English in 2013 and have a dedicated suite of computers plus two Mac rooms for our media students. The skills and qualities associated with technology are all to be found in English; creativity is at the heart of our work and collaboration is a key feature of all English lessons. How much homework is expected? This is set weekly for Key Stages 3 and 4. Tasks vary from private reading to research or a written piece of work. Students are expected to read regularly at home for enjoyment and to help widen their vocabulary. An online facility, SAM Learning, is always available for students to continue their learning at home in most subjects, including English. What are you doing to challenge and excite students? Able students in Year 10 are currently preparing for an AS Level in Creative Writing with an expert teacher, giving them the opportunity to share ideas, to practise crafting their writing and to receive appropriate guidance. This has proved immensely popular.

7 Film and Media Studies A2 and AS Film Studies are taught within the English Faculty. This is a hugely popular course which engages and builds upon students enthusiasm for the media world. In Year 12 students study the contemporary media landscape and develop practical media productions skills. Students are expected to sit a written examination at the end of the year as well as producing practical production pieces. At A2 students build on their AS skills to look more fully at the contexts of media production and consumption why as well as how films are created as they are. Coopers also offers BTEC qualifications equivalent to 2 GCSEs at Key Stage 4 and 1 or 2 A levels at Key Stage 5. These professional qualifications provide students with the knowledge, understanding and skills to enter the media industry, with courses covering video, print and advertising production. We now have two new media suites that have industry standard Apple Macs using the latest software exclusively for our Media students. Every media student has the opportunity to develop skills valued by employers. GCSE Media Studies is now an option for Year 9 students. This consists of practical coursework and an exam at the end of Year 11.

8 Mathematics A typical mathematics lesson at Coopers involves a range of activities and strategies to ensure teaching and learning is personalised; enabling all students to make progress in their mathematical understanding. Pair and group work are regular features of the classroom, providing students with opportunities to share their methods of working and understanding. Problem solving is a key focus and students regularly engage in practical tasks and investigations, set in everyday situations, to help develop their mathematical reasoning and communication skills, as well as discover mathematical concepts for themselves. Students are encouraged to participate in mathematical competitons and celebrations throughout the year including The UKMT Mathematical Challenges, NSPCC Number Day and Pi Day. The faculty is well resourced with interactive whiteboards in all classrooms, as well as a dedicated computer suite where students can research and explore mathematical concepts and ideas. Students have access, in and out of School, to a selection of e-learning resources including My Maths, Sam Learning and Maths Watch. All of which are aimed at further supporting the students in developing their mathematical knoweldge and skills. The faculty is extremely fortunate to have two Higher Level Teaching Assistants who specialise in working with small groups of students in our dedicated intervention rooms. This enables us to provide additional support to students who find mathematics more challenging. At Key Stage 3 students follow the same curriculum; differentiated to meet their needs. Teaching and learning is focused in the areas of Number, Algebra, Ratio, proportion and rates of change, Statistics, Geometry and Measures and Probability, with an emphasis on problem solving. It is imperative that students are able to interpret, analyse and evaluate mathematical situations to ensure they are able to confidently apply their mathematical knowledge to real life situations. Learning and teaching in this way is designed to support the students for GCSE, which they will undertake when they reach KS4. Throughout KS3 student progress is tracked through homework and in class assessments. The information this provides is priceless in assisting teachers, students and parents in highlighting students strengths and supporting them in the areas they need to develop further. At Key Stage 4 students follow a linear GCSE Mathematics course, which focuses on further developing the students problem solving skills to enable them to function competently, effectively and independently in their future lives.

9 Science Science can help us to understand the world around us and it enables us to develop problem solving, practical and teamwork skills. It is an essential core subject here at Coopers and it is therefore studied by all students to GCSE level. As our students recognise that science is highly regarded by employers, many of our students choose to study science to A level and beyond. In Years 7 and 8, students study an exciting, hands-on KS3 scheme of work. This follows the national programme of study and includes topics such as astrophysics, body systems and combustion. At the end of each topic students are assessment using the Coopers assessment model in order to determine their progress. Practical work is embedded throughout all science topics, as we believe that students learn best when they are doing. The new science KS4 curriculum aims to make science stimulating, exciting and relevant to students, and we expect all students to have developed a sound scientific understanding by the age of 16. The sixty top-performing students at the end of Year 8 will study the new separate science GCSEs from Year 9, and all other students will study the new Combined Science GCSE which comprises of modules in chemistry, physics and biology. Separate science students will have six exams at the end of Year 11 (2 papers for each science) and each paper will be 1 hour and 45 minutes long. Combined Science students will also have six exams at the end of Year 11 (again, 2 papers for each science) however their exams will only be 1 hour and 10 minutes long. Students will no longer complete formal coursework; however they will be assessed on their practical skills in all exams.

10 All science lessons are taught in specialist laboratories in the science block. The lessons involve scientific inquiry, discussions, problem solving, use of interactive software, learning how to handle apparatus and chemicals skilfully and safely, utilising video resources as well as traditional teaching methods. We find that many students at Coopers see science as thought provoking, interesting and useful. Typically our KS5 physics, chemistry and biology students have gone on to pursue careers in medicine, veterinary science, forensic science and aeronautics. On Dedicated Learning Days, Year 7 students will have the opportunity to carry out a series of engaging and exciting practicals, while students in Year 8 will take part in a forensics murdermystery day. Throughout all Key Stages, students will have the opportunity to go on many science-based trips, and they will also be able to take part in engaging and challenging STEM activity days which encourage and inspire the students to develop a love of science. Provision has also been made for our Academically Able students in the past and continues to be developed each year. This includes trips to science taster days at university, and enriching science work in lessons.

11 Technology Technology is taught to all students in Years 7 and 8. These students study a core curriculum that is recognised nationally. It is the aim of the Technology Faculty to give all students the opportunity to develop high-level designing and making skills using a broad range of materials, components and tools including our circuit design packages, computer aided manufacture (CAM) machines and laser cutter. Through the projects in KS3, students are provided with the opportunity to work in all of the following topic areas: Food Electronics ICT and CAD/CAM Graphics In Food Technology Year 7 students are introduced to The Eatwell Plate and nutrition, safe and hygienic practice in the kitchen and practical cooking skills. Largely based on the Licence to Cook scheme. These recipies have been developed with the support of the British Nutrition Foundation and students are given the opportunity to make a number of food products including, Fruity flapjacks, pizza toast, pasta with Ragu sauce and savory scones. Coopers require parents and carers to contribute to the cost of the ingredients provided. Electronics helps students to develop an understanding of electricity, electronic components and electronic products. Students make an electronic circuit and then include it within a product. Industrial plastic manufacturing processes are one of the methods students use to make their

12 products to a high standard. Students may also design circuits using industrial quality simulation software. ICT and CAD/CAM is used within projects to help students to develop the knowledge and skills relating to this topic. Students learn how to use ICT and CAD (computer aided design) to draw and communicate ideas and use CAM (computer aided manufacture) to make products. Students have access to both dedicated computer suites and laptops. Students also learn Graphics skills within their electronic project which also includes using basic resistant materials. Learning how to work safely with a range of hand tools is an important feature as well as learning the necessary design skills to help them communicate their ideas. Coopers Technology Faculty believes it is important to provide students with the opportunity to develop and extend their design and technology skills outside of the classroom. We feel that extracurricular activities and the visits that we organise allow students to challenge themselves and fulfil their potential as technologists and young people. An example of such activities is our current enrichment club which offers a range of activities over the year with projects such as design and making movie props from recycled materials. Coopers has also been successful in many cooking competitions. Previously, 3 students have made it through to the Final of the Young Chef competition, with Celebrity Chef James Martin judging the winners. In Year 9, students can start to specialise in a particular area of Technology. KS4 courses are currently available in Electronics, Food, Graphics. Student can currently undertake further studies in Technology subjects at KS5 in Product Design and BTEC Art and Design Graphics.

13 Art There is a thriving Art Department in the School. Students are given a variety of creative and absorbing projects to explore and their inventiveness and hard work is celebrated. Our supportive and stimulating art environment encourages students to develop their artistic potential and enthusiasm to the full. At Key Stage 3 we aim to guide our students in building on their art and design experience at Key Stage 2 by developing their technical skills and their understanding of the work of artists and designers in different cultures. We encourage students to be aware of the visual world around them and to enjoy creative activities. The course we offer at GCSE is Art and Design (Unendorsed). At AS/A2 Level, students can study Fine Art, Textiles and Photography. We have outstanding exam results with a high number of students gaining places at Art Schools such as Ravensbourne, Camberwell, Central St. Martins, Goldsmiths and UCA. Through individual creative projects, students are encouraged to research and develop their ideas both at school and at home. Students are expected to complete independent study to support their classroom activities and to provide further opportunities for artistic development. We pride ourselves on contemporary and leading edge concepts and aim to creatively introduce our students to a wide variety of artistic and cultural experiences. As part of the new Creative Arts block, the Art Department is well resourced, having four brand new art studios, a dedicated Sixth Form studio, a darkroom and Photography Studio. The department provides opportunities for students to participate in extracurricular art activities including enrichment where students will work on collaborative projects. We run a highly successful weekly Professional Development enrichment for the Sixth Form. Students are able to participate in trips to art galleries and other places of interest. We also have the Coop Gallery and Coop website, a public gallery space in which student work is celebrated. We place considerable importance on displaying students' work in Art and around the school. We also have an Art Mac suite in the block for students to use Photoshop to explore digital media.

14 Drama Coopers is proud of its excellent reputation for drama and school productions. Drama is a popular and successful subject at GCSE and A Level. At Key Stage 3, all students will have timetabled drama lessons. At this level the emphasis is on building performance and creative skills through improvisation and text work around a variety of topics. We also focus on building skills which are important to students in drama and also in other subjects and beyond school. These are our 5 Cs : Cooperation; concentration; confidence; communication and contribution. We offer GCSE Drama and A/S and A2 Level Drama and Theatre Studies for students who wish to develop their drama skills. GCSE and A Level Drama students participate in regular trips to the theatre, in the West End and locally. They learn to analyse and evaluate live performance as well as developing their own practical performance and creative skills in lessons. At GCSE level students will explore genres and practitioners and develop devising and performance skills. In addition, students are able to learn about lighting and sound design for theatre and put these skills forward for assessment. A Level and GCSE students learn to approach text as an actor, as a director and as a designer. Visiting theatre companies and practitioners often work with our students at this level to extend their understanding and develop their skills. Coopers offers an excellent range of opportunities for students who wish to perform or become involved in other aspects of theatre production. We have a dedicated Performing Arts technician, with specialist knowledge in lighting equipment and design. Students are given the opportunity to learn from, and join, our student-led backstage and technical teams. They are then taught how to operate our sound and lighting equipment, and they operate lighting and sound for School productions and performances. Drama is an option for enrichment, and students who choose drama will usually be involved in performances for example in preparing acts for Cabaret. In addition, there is an annual School Production last year we staged Little Shop of Horrors. This year s production is yet to be confirmed, but we will once again be doing a full-scale musical, and performances will be in March. In addition, the student-lead Coopers Cabaret allows our talented performers (singers, dancers and actors) to celebrate and showcase their talent. Coopers students have gone on to achieve success by joining The National Youth Theatre and appearing in West End shows, on television and in films and have had recent success in the field of TV Drama and Television lighting. Many of our students continue their drama studies at universities and drama schools such as Goldsmiths and the Central School of Speech and Drama.

15 Music Coopers is proud of its excellent reputation in music and consistently high quality musical ensembles. Our examination results are above national average with 100% of students attaining A*-B GCSE grades in We are also delighted to have moved into our new Creative Arts building with state-of-the-art facilities and five practice rooms to keep music teachers and students busy! Coopers encourages music making and we have an instrumental tuition scheme in affiliation with BYMT where students are able to learn a wide selection of musical instruments at school. We also regularly run a band programme, where students are given the opportunity to learn a new instrument from scratch over 10 weeks and perform at a school event as a school orchestra. We regularly collaborate with national organisations, with recent projects including BBC Ten Pieces, Musical Futures initiatives and Music Mark, the national subject association for music. The music department at Coopers offers a varied extra-curricular programme. At present we offer jazz band, steel pan ensembles, rock school and string group. There are also many talented soloists in the school who are invited to perform at both school and local events. We were delighted to see four of our Year 13 students perform at the Mayor of London Gigs 2015 final, where they were judged by industry professionals, and have secured funding from various organisations to deliver music-making projects. There is a performing arts event every half term within the music department, and this includes events such as Coopers Cabaret, GCSE and A Level Recital Evening, the annual school production (2015 saw us performing Little Shop of Horrors ) and Proms in the Park. There are also opportunities for students to perform outside of Coopers including representing the school at the Music For Youth festival, performances at local care homes and music tours during activities week. The department also organises trips for students to see West End Shows, take part in music workshops and watch classical performances.

16 At KS3, students have one lesson of Music each week. Students cover a wide range of musical styles from vocal performance to music technology. We aim to develop their creativity through performance and composition as well as giving students a firm understanding of the musical vocabulary and cultural background to the music they are studying. The music department has adopted the Musical Futures approach, a national approach to music where making music is at the heart of every lesson. Topics studied at KS3 include the Blues, Waltzes, Music for Media and Hammer Horror, using both instruments and computers to generate music. The department runs courses for a wide range of abilities for KS4 and 5: A Level Music, A Level Music Technology, GCSE music and NCFE in Music Technology. All courses are delivered by staff who are knowledgeable in their respective fields, enhanced with visits by other music industry professionals and trips to supplement learning. Music Technology is a popular subject at Coopers. The music department is well equipped with 2 imac suites and run Logic Pro X, Garage Band, Reason and Sibelius 7. We also have a dedicated music studio and live room, with capability to record small ensembles to medium-sized orchestras remotely within the department, with a full set of microphones to enable recording a professional standard. The music department prides itself on the fact that music technology is available to all students across all key stages. Music technology has caught the interest and enthusiasm of students from all ages across the school. During their post-16 studies, students learn to compose, sequence, and record music through the use of Logic Pro X. Regular collaboration between music technology and music students is encouraged in order to produce songs for coursework and students own interests. The music department continues to grow at Coopers School, and has high aspirations for further development in the near future.

17 Humanities The Humanities Faculty is a team of innovative practitioners committed to maximizing student attainment through personalised learning. The key stage 3 curriculum allows students to focus on knowledge and skill development to enable success through further study of the Humanities subjects to GCSE and A Level. The aim of the Humanities faculty is to enable all students to be: successful learners who enjoy learning, make progress and achieve confident individuals who are able to live safe, healthy and fulfilling lives responsible citizens who make a positive contribution to society In Key Stage 3 all students study discreet subjects: Geography, History, Citizenship and RE. Lessons focus on developing knowledge and understanding as well as focusing on students developing a wide range of personal learning and thinking skills that they will need in order to be successful adults in the 21 st Century that will enable them to be life-long learners. Year 7 Curriculum The Fast-Track and Accelerated curriculum follow the same themes, with changes made to the teaching and learning of the content, both pathways will develop the skills needed to complete a GCSE course in Geography and History. In Geography students will develop geographical skills including map work, interpreting data, being aware of places. They develop an understanding of physical and human Geography through the study of a range of topics including: natural disasters; rivers; Kenya and many more. There are many trips offered by the Geography department to support students in developing crucial geographical skills. The History curriculum involves students developing the skills to be successful historians. All lessons are devised around developing particular skills including: diversity; significance; evidence; interpretations. Students develop their understanding of British, Local and World History through a range of interactive lessons including; the development of political power; the development of society in Britain, the American West, the First World War and many more. Students are offered a range of trips to further their studies in History. Within RE students are asked to consider how people may have different views to their own and gain an understanding of the 6 world religions throughout their study in Key Stage 3. Students undertake a range of activities to gain an understanding of Christianity; Sikhism and Islam in year All year 7 students undertake an Extended Learning Project on the True Meaning of Islam where the best projects are entered into a Bromley wide competition. Students learn what it means to become a good citizen through their Citizenship studies. They identify what it means to be a local citizen, refugees and human and animal rights. We are proud to work with the Citizenship Foundation in the Giving Nation Challenge, where all students in Key

18 Stage 3 are given the opportunity to raise awareness or funds for a charity of their choice. The school has been awarded two prizes of 500 to award to charities of our choice. GCSE Students begin their GCSE study in year 9, with History students completing a Bridging year, enabling them to develop the skills they have been working on in Key Stage 3 to enable them to be successful at GCSE level. In Geography they begin to focus on the Geography GCSE course and take a field trip to practice their field work skills for the controlled assessment task. Both History and Geography are popular and successful subjects at Coopers. Specifications are currently under review by the examination boards. We currently study Edexcel History, AQA RE and AQA Geography A. Students can then choose to further their study of Geography and History at Key Stage 5, where they also have the opportunity to choose Government and Politics at A level.

19 Social Science Coopers is fully committed to providing students with the opportunity to achieve the relevant academic and work-related skills required for an understanding of the world around us and in future careers. The Social Sciences Faculty is, by its very nature, geared to delivering these skills and qualifications. through demonstrating business skills. The first opportunity to study in this Faculty comes at Key Stage 4 with Business Studies GCSE. In all courses students are required to work as a member of a team and learn The Faculty has developed some exciting new opportunities for students, primarily at Key Stage 5. Two year courses are available in Business Studies, Psychology, Sociology and Law A-Levels. In addition, you can study a BTEC Business Subsidiary Diploma (1 A Level) and Finance (Certificate and Diploma of the Institute of Financial Studies). Business Studies A level follows up what is studied at Business Studies GCSE, and looks in greater detail at the world of business and how companies operate. You will learn the importance of marketing, how to identify, target and satisfy customer requirements, and how to motivate people in order to maximise their output. The Business Studies BTEC course is suitable for students who want to learn about business and prefer being able to show their abilities through coursework and continuous assessment, rather than relying on their performance in a final exam. It is very work related and uses investigations into real business. Economics is the study of the production and consumption of goods and the transfer of wealth to produce and obtain these goods. Studying economics explains how people interact within the economy to get what they want. Psychology is the scientific study of people: how they think, how they act, react and interact. Studying psychology will provide you with a clearer picture into the science of human behaviour and attempts to explain how we behave as we do. Sociology is often defined as the study of society, and of people and their behaviour. Sociology is concerned with how we interact with, and are influenced by society. You will look at the society we live in and attempt to understand social and cultural issues that affect us all. The Law course provides useful general knowledge to students of their rights as citizens as well as a respected academic qualification that opens many doors to University courses and the world of work where many jobs involve aspects of law. The Finance course gives valuable practical help to young people in areas such as how to use credit cards wisely, choose appropriate insurance and make sensible decisions regarding things such as student loans, personal loans and ultimately mortgages.

20 Physical Education Physical Education at Coopers gives students the opportunity to experience a wide variety of physical and challenging sports. They are educated about the importance of leading a healthy and active lifestyle, where it is hoped student s positive experiences will encourage them to pursue some form of physical activity when they leave Coopers. Students experiences allow them to: Develop and improve self-confidence and self-discipline Take pride in their own and others performances through evaluation Develop communication and leadership skills both in team games and when officiating Learn to take risks and challenge themselves Develop and improve upon existing sporting skills Understand more about health, fitness and social well-being There is opportunity to be involved in School teams and clubs, where students are actively directed to local clubs and associations in order to advance their sporting opportunities. We encourage healthy competition through our inter Community competitions that occur every term, culminating in an inter Community Sports Day in the Summer Term Our School teams are entered into district, county and national events. Team training occurs before and after School in order to prepare our teams thoroughly for an extensive after School fixtures programme. Our sporting clubs include Football (boys & girls), Rugby, Netball, Basketball, Table Tennis, Athletics, Rounders and Cricket. We also have opportunities to participate in a multitude of nontraditional sports such as Golf, Gymnastics and Trampolining. Key Stage 3 Across Years 7 and 8 students have one 75 minute lesson per week that will cover the National Curriculum key processes through the activities of Health Related Fitness, Gymnastics, Dance, Outdoor Adventurous Activities (such as team building challenges and orienteering), Athletics and Games (which can include Rugby, Netball, Football, Badminton, Cricket, Rounders and Basketball). Key Stage 4 Students in years 9 will follow a similar programme to KS3 yet more focus on evaluation and game play. Year 10 and 11 are able to follow differing pathways that allow them to start to specialise in sport and have the opportunity to undertake a Sport Education unit. Opportunities exist for all the sports experienced in Year 7 & 8 but can also include, Table Tennis, Softball, Trampolining,

21 Handball and Health Related Fitness in our fully equipped Fitness studio. Students are expected to develop a more autonomous approach to their development in P.E. Emphasis is placed far more on students developing leadership and independence. GCSE P.E. & BTEC Sport At the end of Year 8 students have the chance to choose P.E. at GCSE level and to study BTEC National Level 2 Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science, which involves additional lessons to support both theoretical and practical components in order to follow the syllabus. Key Stage 5 P.E. is offered at advanced level where students follow a 2 year course that develops students knowledge of Sports Psychology, Sport Physiology and the Sociology of Sport. We also offer BTEC National Level 3 in Sport, providing students the opportunity to follow a more vocational approach to a Sport related qualification. As with all BTEC qualifications, assessment is completed through assignments and assessment tasks as opposed to final examinations. In 2009 a Coopers and Cray Wanderers Football Academy was established. This has provided opportunity for any talented Footballers to continue their studies at Advanced or BTEC level within the Sixth Form and also receive daily professional Football training with our Academy Manager. The students then represent the Academy in the Conference Youth League throughout the season.

22 Computer Science / ICT The School has in excess of 1,000 computers on the network and whilst the Coopers Learning and Information Centre is the centre of the system, all learning and teaching areas across the School are connected to that network via fibre optic links. In Science and Technology, there are 105+ networked computers across three teaching rooms. In the Old House there are two rooms with 35+ networked computers and also a room with 20 nonnetworked stations. English, Mathematics, Music, Modern Languages, Humanities and Art all have access to dedicated suites of networked computers or laptops. There are interactive whiteboards in the majority of classrooms across the site and all faculties have a wealth of interactive resources to interest, excite and bring learning to life in the classroom. Coopers Learning Gateway Coopers is very proud of its online learning community called the Learning Gateway. All students have a unique log-on allowing them to access learning resources and assignments in and out of School for all subjects. The Learning Gateway provides greater potential for immediate feedback on completed assignments and encourages students to review their learning more regularly. Individual sites within the Learning Gateway for all subjects enable students to collaborate with their peers and teachers and facilitates more engaging and exciting ways to learn. The Learning Gateway also gives direct access to parents by enabling them to access their child s reports and general School information and creates a greater sense of involvement in School life.

23 Key Stage 3 All year 8 students follow a new computing curriculum as recommended by the recent Government reforms and are led by experienced computer science staff. Students complete KS3 in year 8 and move onto their KS4 curriculum by year 9. A cross-curricular approach to ICT is also adopted throughout Years 7-9. Since all schemes of work embrace some aspect of ICT, teachers are encouraged to involve students in information technology, relevant and appropriate to their own subject. The objective is the presentation of a more realistic view of the computer as a tool and not equipment used in dedicated Computer Science / ICT lessons. However, certain departments have additional responsibilities to deliver aspects of the National Curriculum in ICT. Mathematics - modelling using spreadsheets Science - data logging and measuring Technology - computer control, CAD and modelling using Logicator and Pro Desktop Humanities - information handling and basic research skills English - communication through word processing and/or desktop publishing In Years 8 students undertake one lesson of computer science each week. The curriculum is designed to prepare students to start the GCSE or Vocational courses which are being introduced throughout the School in Years 9 to 11. Full details of the GCSE or OCR courses are discussed below under Key Stage 4. Key Stage 4 In Years 9 to 11 students have options of what they may wish to study for. The Computer Science faculty offers a number of choices of which to choose from. Within all options students are required to learn a variety of ICT skills, (using Office 2013 and Adobe CS4 software, and video editing tools), which they need to apply to ensure that they can provide an effective and suitable solutions to the brief. Student will need to be able to show planning skills, application of knowledge and evaluation skills (both self and peer). GCSE Computing The course is a combination of theory and practical skills. Students undertaking this course will be learn the theory behind technologies in the computing industry, and how this impacts on their lives and on society. The course gives students a real, in-depth understanding of how computer technology works. Students will no doubt be familiar with the use of computers and other related technology from their other subjects and elsewhere. However, this course will give them an insight into what goes on behind the scenes, including computer programming, which many students find absorbing. GCSE ICT The course is a combination of theory and practical skills. Students undertaking this course will be learn the theory behind technologies in the Digital World and understand how the world of

24 technology keeps evolving, and how this impact on their lives and on society. The course also enables them to develop problem solving, decision making and critical thinking skills to solve an ICT problem as part of the Controlled Assessment Brief. Edexcel CiDA The course is a combination of exam based and practical application, split 30/70 in terms of overall grading. Students undertaking this course will be learn how to design, produce and test a Website according to a client brief and understand how the practical application of skills can be used to benefit a target audience, and how this customer satisfaction and expectations. Key Stage 5 We offer three courses at KS5 all of which could follow on from what they have studied at KS4. Cambridge TEC ICT Level 3 The Cambridge TEC ICT Level 3 offer students a more in-depth look at ICT in the modern workplace, and give an insight into its role in specialist careers. As an alternative to GCE, or similar exam-based courses, these qualifications provide on-going learning and assessment of the practical skills and knowledge required to succeed in ICT-related careers. Students will study two mandatory units, plus four optional units. There is also an option to opt for the double award which consists of 12 units and is worth the equivalent of 2 A-Levels. The Cambridge TEC ICT Level 3 qualifies for UCAS points. AQA GCE ICT The AQA GCE in ICT qualifies for UCAS points in preparation for moving onto a degree course and similar related ICT subjects including Computer Science and Multimedia. The course is designed to be highly motivating and to develop the knowledge and E-skills students need to be competent and informed ICT users and practitioners. The students have exclusive access to a section of The Learning and Information Centre and the Sixth Form Centre. Students may study to either AS or A Level. OCR GCE Computing This modern qualification gives students a general grounding in computing, including an understanding of computer systems, the principles of programming and problem-solving. We give students the capacity to think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically, give them an understanding of the organisation of computer systems, the ability to apply skills, knowledge and understanding of computing, including programming, in a range of contexts to solve problems and an understanding of the consequences of using computers, an awareness of emerging technologies and an appreciation of their potential impact on society.

25 Modern Foreign Languages Our main objectives are to give our students a clear sense of purpose in learning a foreign language and to make the course an enjoyable experience, while still offering an academic challenge. Students are taught French and Spanish in sets according to their ability; students in fast track groups follow an accelerated course. In year 9 students select the language they wish to study at GCSEs. Key Stage 3 topics covered include personal information, family, hobbies, school life, shopping, travel, work, house and home, arranging to go out, health, holidays and the local environment. Students are set weekly homework to consolidate their learning and they are also regularly assessed in the four skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking. Our approach to the teaching of modern languages embraces a wide range of teaching styles aimed at motivating the interest of all students. Lessons frequently include games, quizzes, songs and drama. Where it is appropriate, students are required to make a detailed study of grammar and may be required to learn items by heart. Students are encouraged to communicate in the target language as much as possible during the lessons. The use of Information Technology is widespread and students have access to language exercises on websites which parents are welcome to try! The faculty is fortunate to be equipped with a number of interactive whiteboards and students have regular access to the language lab, our designated computer suite. Students have access to languages websites during lessons and at home and are provided with passwords. All students follow courses that ultimately can lead to GCSE. Currently students may continue their language studies in French and Spanish in the Sixth Form where AS and A2 courses are offered. An AS certificate is equivalent to half an A2 Level, thus allowing students to cover a wider selection of subjects in the Sixth Form. The teachers in the Modern Languages Faculty are extremely keen to develop the students cultural awareness of French and Spanish speaking countries. This is achieved through regular opportunities to research and complete projects and presentations on famous French or Spanish people, places and customs. We also invite drama groups to perform in French and we celebrate the European Day of Languages every year by organising various cultural activities. We see trips as a very valuable means of developing students linguistic expertise and familiarity with the culture. Throughout their time at Coopers students may take part in day trips in Years 7 and 8 and in a week-long trip to France in Years We strongly recommend that students take part in such trips and encourage them to write to pen friends. We have developed links with French students and are twinned with a school in Calais; the French students visit us once a year and then it is the turn of a group of Coopers students to go to the French college for the return visit.

26 Personal Development Personal Development is taught to all students in Years 7 and 8 in a vertical tutor system, which means that there will be students from both year groups in the tutor group. Personal Development lessons give students the opportunity to learn about a wide variety of real life topics in a familiar and secure environment. The vertical system offers opportunities for mentoring and peer support. The Personal Development curriculum has been devised to support and underpin the wider school curriculum, being delivered through a range of activities using many different stimuli and resources. Personal Development lessons are planned by subject specialist teachers and delivered by Personal Development tutors. These lessons cover the following curriculum areas: Personal, Social, Health & Economic Education Citizenship Literacy Across the Curriculum Maths Across the Curriculum Work Related Learning Information, Advice and Guidance Current affairs Controversial discussion topics The overview for the Academic Year : Autumn Term 1 Autumn Term 2 Spring Term 1 Spring Term 2 Summer Term 1 Summer Term 2 Target setting Careers Black History Month The environment European Day of Languages Politics Anti-bullying Peer mentoring Dealing with conflict Crime and Punishment Community cohesion Holocaust Memorial Day Safer Internet Day War and Peace World Maths Day Sport Relief National Science and Engineering Week Women s History month Children s Book Week Mental health issues Sex and Relationships Education Study and revision skills Finance Week Drugs Education

27 Academically Able Coopers takes very seriously its aim to both broaden and deepen the learning experiences of its cohort of Academically Able students. Our team of Lead Practitioners oversee different areas of the school to ensure that Academically Able students are set challenging and stretching work, to ensure that they achieve their potential. We also have Academically Able enrichment co-ordinators who organise extra-curricular activities such as educational trips and visiting speakers. The DofE Bronze award is offered from year 9 onwards. Students have visited Russell Group universities on taster and challenge days, taken part in regional and national competitions and events and have enjoyed additional coaching in debating, maths, IT and public speaking. Academically Able students in years 7 & 8 attend meetings with mentors to set goals and complete challenging and personalised tasks. Mentors provide students with opportunities to visit Universities such as Imperial, create links with Academically Able students from other schools through a programme run by Warwick University. We also have a student mentoring scheme for students targeted to achieve multiple A* and A grades. During these sessions students receive 1-on-1 tutoring from 6 th formers with similar abilities and aspirations. Staff enjoy regular INSET training in which, for example, specialists in the AA field highlight ways in which to ensure higher level thinking skills are incorporated into lessons in order to maximise the potential of our most able students.